Creating Meaningful Large and Small Group Experiences Audience: This workshop is ideal for early childhood teachers looking to strengthen group-time practices and walk away with ready-to-use tools for immediate implementation. Workshop Description: Group time is more than just gathering children on the carpet—it’s an opportunity to build community, foster engagement, and support intentional learning. This interactive workshop will explore the foundational elements of effective large and small group instruction in early childhood settings, with a focus on making these experiences meaningful, developmentally appropriate, and connected to children’s interests. Participants will learn how to plan and facilitate large group activities (e.g., circle time, music, shared read-alouds) that support attention and participation, as well as how to structure small group experiences that target specific skills through hands-on, play-based learning. The session will also include a make-and-take component, where participants will create materials and visual supports to use during group times—such as group-time cue cards, visual schedules, or small group activity kits—designed to boost engagement and support diverse learners. Learning Outcomes: By the end of this session, participants will be able to: * Identify the key purposes and characteristics of effective large and small group experiences * Plan group activities that are engaging, inclusive, and responsive to children's developmental needs * Implement strategies to support participation and manage group time transitions * Create and take home practical materials to support implementation in the classroom This training will include resource book and materials for make and take.
The Elementary Science Olympiad (ESO) is the perfect complement to any 4th-6th grade science program. ESO events take advantage of the natural curiosity of each child, and allow for in-depth hands-on experiences. No prep for the events is necessary. If you attended previously please give new students the opportunity to participate (some events will be repeats). Each school building can bring up to 6 students (they will work in pairs). Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
The Elementary Science Olympiad (ESO) is the perfect complement to any 4th-6th grade science program. ESO events take advantage of the natural curiosity of each child, and allow for in-depth hands-on experiences.
No prep for the events is necessary. If you attended previously please give new students the opportunity to participate (some events will be repeats).
Each school building can bring up to 6 students (they will work in pairs). Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
The goal of this meeting is to collaborate with other educators working with Multilingual learners (English learners) to build capacity for success in the school setting. We'll focus on professional learning related to effective language acquisition materials, family and community engagement, and supporting content area teachers.
Teachers matter more to student achievement than any other aspect of schooling. Teachers need professional development that provides deeper knowledge, skills, and practice to successfully address reading difficulties. Understanding the content and methodology of research-based, explicit, structured literacy instruction Deep knowledge of the cognitive and language factors that shape student learning and of pedagogical detail Information about how to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all student Registration Deadline - May 16, 2025 or before if registration maxes at 40 participants
Teachers matter more to student achievement than any other aspect of schooling. Teachers need professional development that provides deeper knowledge, skills, and practice to successfully address reading difficulties.
Understanding the content and methodology of research-based, explicit, structured literacy instruction
Deep knowledge of the cognitive and language factors that shape student learning and of pedagogical detail
Information about how to differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all student
Preschoolers have a natural curiosity and love to explore their surroundings! Engaging them in the Project Approach means involving them in investigations of topics that capture their interest and are valuable for their understanding. By incorporating this approach into the curriculum, teachers can foster a genuine enthusiasm for learning among their students. Over the course of this two-day workshop, participants will: * Delve into project phases, key experiences and roles of educators and students * Emphasize the creation of inclusive, high-quality learning environments * Examine a variety of real classroom projects that were designed and implemented * Actively engage in a guided process for developing a 4-6 week study, including lesson plans to implement the following school year. Participants will be provided with a Project Approach Guide and materials
